The NHS and local authorities in North Yorkshire are encouraging people to get their COVID and flu vaccinations to protect themselves and their loved ones this winter.

Health leaders are expecting to see a wave of COVID infections this October and early in the New Year – at the same time as increasing levels of flu begin to circulate in the community.

They say vaccinations are the best way for people protect themselves and their loved ones from serious respiratory illness – and help prevent the local health and care system from being overwhelmed.

People aged 50 and over, pregnant women, carers, front line health and care workers, care home residents and people of all ages who have a weakened immune system or live with someone who has, can get a seasonal COVID-19 booster.

There's information about how to get your COVID Autumn booster (or further primary dose, if required) on the NHS website. You can also get information about local vaccination clinics, here.

Most of the groups above will also be offered a free flu jab, including many categories of frontline health and care staff and staff. Younger people with some long-term health conditions are also being offered a free NHS flu jab.

You can find out about flu jab eligibility on the NHS website here.

As well as free flu jobs for those eligible, many pharmacies are also offering flu vaccinations for around £10.

Health leaders say there are a number of steps we can all follow this autumn and winter, to protect ourselves and health and care services.